JOYFUL SIGHTS OF WINTER GARDENING – WITH TOM PATTINSON

Winter gardening is much more enjoyable when in the presence of inspirational hardy plants that set a benchmark for survival.

Last week, I stood under a tall autumn cherry that was covered in pink-tinged bloom, highlighted by a shaft of sunlight and patch of blue sky to the rear.

A breeze carrying sleet came and went in an instant.

Then a rainbow started to form. An unbelievable combination of events that will last long in the mind’s eye, and the resolve to be out there witnessing such magical moments simply grows stronger.

Several other winter plants are just as tough and attractive as Prunus subhirtella Autumnalis Rosea, which comes in bush or standard form.

Ground-hugging winter heathers (Erica carnea) have long enjoyed the freedom of this garden because they offer so much.

We have them principally for the mass of white, pink, and red blooms that last from December to April, and they’re a boon to bees out foraging early in the year.

They certainly suppress weed growth and, if trodden on by mistake, simply bounce back into shape. The viburnums earn their place, too.

Not only Dawn which, leafless in winter, carries those stunningly fragrant clusters of pink bloom from November to April, but also two useful versions of V. tinus.

Both have white, scentless clusters of bloom and are evergreen, encouraging roosting and nesting birds.

Best evergreen cultivar is V. tinus St. Ewe and the variegated V. Variegatum is so pleasing to the eye. Interested? The time is good for planting.

There’s a price to pay for not working little and often in the winter garden, and it’s not just falling behind with urgent jobs.

You miss joyful sights of bulbs emerging and a summer hebe repeat flowering in freezing January conditions!